The Fastnet Race is a famous biennial offshore yacht race organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club of the United Kingdom. Generally considered one of the classic offshore races, 'Fastnet' is a difficult contest testing both inshore and offshore skills, boat and crew preparation and speed potential. The changing and unpredictable weather poses massive dangers for inexperienced sailors. The 1979 disaster led to a major overhaul of the rules and the equipment required for the competition. 

The fleet taking part in the 1981 Fastnet race assemble in Cowes for the start of the 605-mile biennial Fastnet race. There is an air of trepidation before the race begins as the competitors remember the 15 sailors who lost their lives at sea in the 1979 Fastnet disaster. The boats sail up to the start line, jostling for the prized position to give them that extra edge, the horn blasts and they are on their way. The race follows the southern coastline of England westward down the English Channel, before rounding Land's End. After crossing the Celtic Sea, the race rounds the Fastnet Rock, and Returns on a largely reciprocal course, the race rounds the Isles of Scilly before finishing at Plymouth. 

Produced by Dick Werner ( First broadcast 1981 )